But another Big Ten contender got a boost: Michigan’s Jabrill Peppers. He rushed for more than 70 yards and two TDs and also helped the Wolverines defense hold Rutgers to only two first downs. Peppers is now fifth for USA Today and ESPN.

Both Barrett and Peppers are now also dealing with another surging contender: Washington QB Jake Browning. The Huskies’ quarterback threw for 304 yards and 6 TDs as Washington routed Oregon 70-21.

In USA Today’s survey, Jackson picked up 28 of 31 first-place votes, with Watson getting the other 3. But there’s good news for Barrett. With top-10 Wisconsin up this weekend, Barrett has a huge opportunity to impress voters.